Using social media: practical and ethical guidance for doctors

Many health professionals use websites such as Facebook, Twitter and various different internet forums. While the use of social media can bring both personal and professional benefits, it can also present a number of risks to doctors and medical students.

BMA guidance provides a brief overview of the challenges and potential pitfalls that health professionals may encounter when using social media. It gives practical and ethical guidance on a range of subjects including, protecting patient confidentiality, defamation, the public-private boundary and the potential impact of social media use on medical education and employment.